Frequently Asked Questions
It’s great to ask a lot of questions before deciding on a care provider. Here are the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
Still have something on your mind? We love to answer your questions. The harder the better. Book a Free Consultation and bring a list of everything you want to know!
What is community birth?
Community birth refers to planned birth outside of a hospital, usually at home or in a freestanding birth center. It centers on the natural, physiological process of labor and birth, with fewer interventions and a more personal, family-centered approach.
At Balance, community birth also means being held by a team that knows your name, sees your whole story, and supports your decisions every step of the way.
How does birth at the center work?
When you go into labor, you’ll call your midwife and together decide when to head to the birth center. Once you arrive, you’ll settle into your private suite, labor however feels best to you, and give birth with support from your midwife team. Waterbirth is always an option.
After birth, you and your baby stay for a few hours to rest, recover, and bond. Then you head home with a full support plan in place, including postpartum visits at home and in the clinic.
Do I need to see a doctor too?
Not unless something comes up that requires medical intervention. Your midwife provides complete prenatal, birth, and postpartum care for healthy pregnancies. If complications arise, we collaborate with medical providers as needed.
Is out-of-hospital birth safe?
Yes—for low-risk pregnancies, research shows community birth is safe and effective. Every setting has its own risks and benefits. We’re happy to talk openly with you about what’s best for your unique situation.
More data: MANA Stats | ACOG Position
Do you accept Medicaid (SoonerCare)?
SoonerCare does not currently cover out-of-hospital birth in Oklahoma. We offer discounted care packages for SoonerCare clients and are happy to help you find the right fit.
What is a midwife?
A midwife is a trained professional who provides complete prenatal, birth, and postpartum care for healthy pregnancies. Midwives are experts in physiological birth, and they’re trained to identify when something falls outside the safe range and refer appropriately.
Our midwives are Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs), licensed by the State of Oklahoma, and trained in both natural and clinical care. We believe deeply in collaborative decision-making and trust between client and provider.
Can I have a home birth instead?
Yes! If you’re eligible and home is where you feel most comfortable, we’re happy to bring care to you. The same midwife team attends your birth, and the same postpartum care is provided. We bring everything needed to keep you safe, including waterbirth supplies.
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Does insurance cover this care?
Often, yes—but it depends on your specific policy. Most families who submit their own claims receive partial reimbursement.
We work with Napier Midwifery Billing, a service that helps clients verify benefits and submit claims. We’ll help you navigate it step by step.
What happens in an emergency?
Midwives are trained to handle many urgent situations—including postpartum hemorrhage and newborn resuscitation. If emergency transport is needed, we activate EMS and continue to care for you during transfer.
A team member will go with you to the hospital if a transfer is needed, and we continue postpartum care even if your birth plan changes. This ensures you are supported throughout any situation.
Is payment assistance available?
Yes. We partner with United Medical Credit to offer financing for care. You can apply at unitedcredit.com.